Published by Victoria University Press. ISBN 0-86473-365-8. RRP $39.95
Through the sparkling correspondence between some of the most distinguished public servants of their era, Unofficial Channels gives an insight into the development of one of New Zealand's most important government departments.
Alister McIntosh was Secretary of the Department of External Affairs from its inception in 1943 until his retirement in 1966. He and his chief lieutenants, Foss Shanahan, George Laking and Frank Corner, played vital roles in determining New Zealand's response to major international developments which were dominated by the Cold War and the difficulties engendered by decolonisation. Against a background of crises - in China or Korea, over the Suez Canal, in Vietnam or Rhodesia - they sought to support and guide governments sometimes reluctant to accept the implications of New Zealand's evolving international position.
McIntosh maintained an extensive private correspondence with the three diplomats, and their fascinating off-the-record exchanges provide a frank and uninhibited perspective on the key personalities and politics of the time. Their observations of people and events, their aspirations for a thoroughly professional diplomatic service, their bemusement and at times irritation with their treatment by their political masters, and their groping for an appropriate strategy with which to confront the problems facing New Zealand in dealing with the world are all evident in the interaction between these men.
With a foreword by former diplomat Mr Tom Larkin, Unofficial Channels is edited by Dr Ian McGibbon (ONZM) of the Historical Branch of the Department of Internal Affairs, whose introduction and annotations to the letters provide a useful context.